Compounding Pharmacy Oversight Under Fire by Senate Committee

Last week, a Senate committee questioned states on the oversight of compounding pharmacies as part of its investigation into the fungal meningitis outbreak linked to products from the New England Compounding Center in Framingham, Mass., according to an AHA News Now report.

The outbreak is tied to injectable epidural steroid medication that was later recalled by NECC. The medication has caused 33 deaths and more than 480 illnesses so far, according to a Senate report.

The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee asked state boards of pharmacy several questions related to compounding pharmacies. The committee also asked the boards to provide their requirements for compounding pharmacies and physicians, as well as any previous complaints or disciplinary actions against NECC in their state, by Dec. 7.